tailgate latch

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Jun 20, 2015 | 05:14 PM

alchemist1

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tailgate latch

So there are three 'screws' or bolts that hold the tailgate latch onto the tailgate itself. When I removed the tailgate from my truck I mistakenly removed one of the bolts on one side. There's a nut, I believe, inside the actual tailgate. How does one hold the nut while tightening the bolt?

Jun 20, 2015 | 05:25 PM

brian1080

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From: Near St. Joseph,MO

I may be wrong, but I'm thinking the nuts were welded to the handle on mine.

Jun 20, 2015 | 05:48 PM

alchemist1

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Not talking about the handle (center top of tailgate). Talking about the latches (top inside lip) on each side of tailgate.

Jun 20, 2015 | 06:03 PM

brian1080

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From: Near St. Joseph,MO

ahhh, gotcha. lemme look

*same thing, they should be welded onto a plate. no way to access them from the inside once it's together.

Jun 20, 2015 | 06:14 PM

brian1080

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Feb 2010

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From: Near St. Joseph,MO

I lied. I just took one apart, the nuts aren't actually nuts,, they are square tabs with threads through them. They are made to fit into square holes in the tailgate,, that's what keeps them from spinning. if the holes are still good, just put them in place and maybe stick some epoxy on the back to keep it in place. if the holes are wallered out, you won't be able to do much.